West Norriton welcomes new police chief, Adams retires

WEST NORRITON — The police department said farewell to one law enforcement leader and welcomed the next, with the official retirement of Chief Robert Adams Monday morning.

Former Deputy Chief Dale Mabry is the new chief of police. Adams was honored with an escort from the township building Monday morning.

At the end of July, Adams was commended for going above and beyond the call of duty, when his car was struck by a drunk driver on West Main Street in West Norriton.

Adams’ unmarked police vehicle was T-boned at the intersection of West Main Street and Burnside Avenue, after he positioned his car to prevent the Toms River, N.J. motorist from doing any more damage. He had reportedly already been driving recklessly and on the wrong side of the road. Adams was not injured, but it took him and two other police officers to extract the intoxicated man from behind the wheel.

According to published reports, Mabry’s new role starts Jan. 1, 2013, a new year with new beginnings.

The announcement of Adams’ retirement came to light during the Oct. 9 township commissioners meeting.

In addition to Mabry’s promotion, Jan. 1 marked the official start of West Norriton’s new township manager, Jason Bobst.

While Bobst stepped into this role early and has been serving as acting township manager since July, he is one of the youngest to have ever served in this capacity in West Norriton.

Originally from Bucks County, the 30-year old told The Times Herald back in July, “The biggest thing (to do now) is to sit down with the staff … get to know them and get to work.”

The West Norriton Board of Commissioners approved Bobst’s two-year contact, which includes a $100,000 salary and the lease of a Ford Explorer. He claimed his top priorities were to address sewage treatment issues within township sewer lines.

With the holiday upon us, neither Mabry, Adams or Bobst were able to return calls seeking comment at press time.